The Time Freedom Podcast

Top 5 Takeaways: Variation creates appreciation. Doing different things in life, like working then resting or traveling then staying put, makes you appreciate what you did before and what might come next. The contrast is the point. Consider a career break in the first part of Year 2. If you're following the No-Hustle Transition to entrepreneur, don't just flip from employee to business owner. Take a real break first. Even just three months to decompress. You'll be more productive in the nine months that follow than if you white-knuckled through all twelve. A career break "cracks people open" to living differently. Many of Katrina's clients are corporate 9-to-5ers who return from their breaks realizing they can design life on their own terms, not just go back to the way things were. Plans are cute. It's good to have goals, but always take advantage of the random opportunities that come your way.  Digital nomad life has pros and cons, just like traditional living. After eight years of location independence, Katrina is considering settling down for easier dating, fitness routines, and mental space to grow her business. Every lifestyle has its trade-offs. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction to Katrina McGhee 1:21 – The Digital Nomad Lifestyle Explained 4:09 – The Power of Career Breaks 6:51 – Transitioning into Remote Work & Coaching 9:39 – From Nomadic Living to a Home Base 12:27 – Building a Flexible Coaching Business 15:10 – The “No Hustle” Transition Approach 17:44 – Planning for the Future with Flexibility 32:24 – Navigating Career Transitions & Uncertainty 36:37 – Building a Brand Around Career Breaks KATRINA MCGHEE Katrina McGhee is a career break and sabbatical coach, digital nomad, and author of Taking a Career Break for Dummies. During her first career break, she traveled the world for 20 months. In her next, she left her corporate job a second time to build her coaching business. Katrina is the co-founder of BreakSpace, the membership community for career breakers and sabbatical takers. You can connect with Katrina at kmcgheecoaching.com or listen to her podcast, Taking a Career Break with Katrina McGhee.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: "I don't have time" really means "it's not a priority." Changing that language reminds you that time is a choice. Saying yes to things that intrigue you, even small or unfamiliar ones, is how new opportunities find you. Active patience means doing your part so time can do its part. "Not yet" doesn't mean never. Complexity is not the same as chaos. A well-run life can have a lot going on and still feel orchestrated. You have 8,760 hours in a year. When you track them, you start to see space where you thought there was none. Chapters:  0:00 – Introduction to Laura Vanderkam & Time Management 10:34 – What Time Abundance Really Means 15:25 – Active Patience & Long-Term Thinking 23:37 – The Role of Feedback in Growth 26:24 – Life as a “Circus” (and Why That’s Okay) 28:10 – The One-Year View on Time 31:02 – Prioritizing What Truly Matters 32:41 – Time, Kids, and Accountability 34:33 – Key Reflections & Final Insights 37:07 – Time Freedom Book Promotion LAURA VANDERKAM Laura Vanderkam is a bestselling author, speaker, and one of the leading voices on time management and productivity. She's the author of seven books on time, including 168 Hours, Tranquility by Tuesday, Off the Clock, and her newest, Big Time: A Simple Path to Time Abundance. Laura’s work has appeared in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, and Fortune. She's a Princeton grad and lives outside Philadelphia with her husband and five children. You can connect with Laura at lauravanderkam.com.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: A job is just a job, not a career. When you're good at what you do, leaving a role is far less risky than most people think. You don't have to be an entrepreneur to live with time freedom. Les achieved it through a traditional career by making intentional choices over time. Post-adventure depression is real. Finishing a big, consuming goal can leave a hole that catches you off guard. Retire into something, not away from something. The four phases of transition (vacation, loss of purpose, exploration, new purpose) explain why so many retirees go back to work. There are things you can only do at certain times in life. Waiting for the “right time” can mean the window closes entirely. Chapters: 0:00 – Introduction and Les Sherry’s Background 2:19 – The Desire for Time Freedom 5:02 – Planning a Year-Long Family Adventure 7:36 – What It’s Really Like Traveling as a Family 10:07 – Coming Home and Reintegrating 12:30 – Transitioning Away from Traditional Work 14:57 – Finding Purpose After the Journey 17:15 – Key Lessons from a Year Abroad 37:30 – The Four Phases of Transition Explained 49:36 – Coaching, Independence, and What’s Next LES SHERRY  Les Sherry is an ICF certified executive coach with over 30 years of leadership experience across consulting, healthcare, and technology. He spent 11 years at Accenture before joining Kaiser Permanente, where he worked for nearly two decades. In 2012, smack in the middle of his Kaiser career, Les and his family packed their backpacks (100 pounds total) and spent a year traveling to 23 countries across six continents. Since retiring, he's picked up fly fishing, fly tying, piano, Muay Thai kickboxing, and is training to teach yoga. You can connect with Les on LinkedIn.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: Happiness is fleeting and external. Joy is self-sourced. Only 10% of our experience comes from external circumstances. The other 90% is up to us. More time doesn't equal more success. You can get there faster by working fewer hours with a refreshed attitude than by grinding it out. Follow the breadcrumbs. Seema left dentistry with no plan and let opportunities show up as she aligned with her values. Perspective changes everything. Seema's husband comes home from losing patients and sees their own chaos as a gift, not a problem. Privilege is a gift when used responsibly. The question isn't whether you have it, but whether you're using it to serve others or just yourself. Chapters: 0:00 – Welcome and Introduction to the Episode 2:25 – What Time Freedom Really Means 4:59 – Personal Transformations and Influences 7:35 – Life Choices and Career Direction 10:13 – Cultural Background and Early Challenges 12:35 – The Path to Coaching and Self-Discovery 15:08 – Midlife Reflections and Redefining Happiness 17:39 – Priorities, Alignment, and Intentional Living 23:48 – Happiness vs. Joy: What’s the Difference? 32:22 – Privilege, Responsibility, and Living with Purpose DR. SEEMA DESAI  Dr. Seema Desai is a leadership coach, speaker, and author who helps high-achieving professionals stop chasing happiness and start building joy. A former dentist, Seema walked away from her practice to pursue a more aligned life, guided by the belief that joy is the strategy for creating your next competitive edge. She holds a Doctor of Dental Surgery degree and is a graduate of Heroic Public Speaking. Seema lives in Austin, Texas with her husband and two children.  You can connect with Seema at drseemadesai.com  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: Give each day a single focus. Instead of cramming work, family, self-care, and social time into every day, Ruby picks one theme per day. It stopped her from feeling like she was failing at everything. Accept the seasons of "time broke." With young kids, certain hours of the day are just spoken for. Accepting that (instead of resenting it) frees up the hours you do control. You don't have to be with someone all the time to love them. Ruby and her husband travel without their kids regularly, and she's normalizing it for her family. The guilt fades when you see how good it is for everyone. Fill the vacuum. Removing scrolling from your life forces a question most people avoid: what do you actually want to do with your time? That's what makes the change stick. Design over willpower. You can meet a friend at the bakery and resist the croissant, or you can meet them at the smoothie place and skip the battle entirely. The same principle applies to your phone. Chatpers: 0:00 – Welcome and Early Personal Insights 1:16 – From High School Math Teacher to Author 5:36 – Generational Perspectives on Time Freedom 10:26 – Freedom, Autonomy, and Designing Your Life 13:40 – Entrepreneurship and Intentional Life Choices 17:19 – Time Freedom Across Different Life Stages 25:30 – The Story Behind Writing How to Stop Scrolling 30:00 – Understanding the Reader and the Problem of Phone Use 31:14 – Reclaiming Time and Attention in a Digital World 34:27 – Building Meaningful Connections and Adult Friendships RUBY RYBA Ruby Ryba is a former high school math teacher turned screen time strategist and the author of How to Stop Scrolling, out March 30th. After teaching algebra and AP statistics for years, Ruby pivoted during COVID to pursue writing and coaching, blending her analytical background with a passion for helping people be more intentional with their time and attention. She hosts a weekly writing circle through the Write Useful Books community and publishes The Scroll Shift, a weekly newsletter with actionable advice on redesigning your relationship with your phone. You can connect with Ruby at howtostopscrolling.com and rubyrybawrites.com.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: Aim for more than enough. John Bogle preached "enough." Paul respectfully disagrees. Most people never reach their goal, and bad things happen. A cushion of more than enough is what actually lets you relax. The “two funds for life” strategy is powerful in its simplicity: a target date fund plus a small cap value index fund. That's it. It came from John Bogle shaking his finger at Paul and saying, "You cannot ask investors to manage 10 different funds." Staying the course is the whole game. Paul managed billions in other people's money but won't manage his own because he knows the emotional pull is too strong. If he can't trust himself to stay rational, the rest of us should take that seriously. The best first step is invisible. Auto-enroll in a 401k, put it in a target date fund, and never look at it. Boring is the strategy. It's also the one that actually works over 40 years. Find work you'd do forever and you'll never need to fully retire. Paul started his firm from a set of affirmations at age 40. At 82, he's up before 4 AM reading and creating content. His whole life now "feels like weekends." Chapters: 0:00 – Meet Paul Merriman 3:04 – Early Influences and Background in Investing 8:21 – Paul’s Journey from Investor to Educator 13:38 – Why He Shifted from Managing Money to Teaching 17:07 – Selling the Firm and Redefining Purpose 24:00 – The “2 Funds for Life” Strategy Explained 29:59 – Why Staying the Course Matters 34:06 – Emotional Challenges in Modern Investing 36:54 – The Power of Compound Interest and Long-Term Thinking 41:05 – Defining “More Than Enough” and Building a Legacy PAUL MERRIMAN Paul Merriman is a financial educator, author, and the founder of the Merriman Financial Education Foundation, where he’s devoted himself full-time to free financial education for do-it-yourself investors. Paul is the author of We're Talking Millions: 12 Simple Ways to Supercharge Your Retirement, which he gives away for free. You can connect with Paul at paulmerriman.com and download his free books at paulmerriman.com/free-books.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: Your buffers aren't just financial. Vickie identifies four: financial, health, paperwork and plans, and skills. When life goes sideways, it's the combination that determines how fast you recover. Selling the house and the stuff bought her something more valuable than equity. It bought her time and space to pivot without the weight of debt and maintenance pulling her under. You can turn down more money if the cost is your time and energy. Vickie walked away from six-figure contract offers because the real price wasn't worth it. Switching off autopilot requires six neurological components: buy-in, stimulation, intervention, reflection, sleep, and repetition. You can't just want to change; you have to create the conditions for it. Living big doesn't require a specific income level. Vickie works about half the year, makes a fraction of her old salary, and is currently living in Albania for two months because she designed her life to allow it. Chapters: 0:00 – How Major Life Events Shape Personal Growth 3:38 – Career Challenges and the Path Toward Financial Freedom 6:11 – Minimalism and the Pursuit of Time Freedom 14:53 – Navigating Life’s Difficult Moments with Support 17:53 – Discovering New Opportunities Through Time Freedom 21:02 – The Power of Life Buffers: Money, Health, Skills, and Systems 24:37 – What It Means to Be a High Agency Human 27:11 – Breaking Out of Autopilot and Living Intentionally 34:59 – Writing a Book to Create Impact 36:37 – Building Community and Sharing the Message VICKIE LANTHIER Vickie Lanthier is a decorated Canadian military veteran, registered nurse, author, and the founder of High Agency Human. Now a registered nurse, she started a hiking resource business that has donated over $27,000 to mental health and conservation charities since 2020, and is currently racing a friend to visit 50 countries. Her new book, High Agency Human: Navigate Adversity and Live Big, comes out March 24, 2025. Connect with Vickie at highagencyhuman.com, or find her on Instagram and LinkedIn at Vickie Lanthier.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: Financial independence (FI) doesn't mean your life is figured out. Rebecca reached FI at 32 and says it’s taken years to design a life she loves. Moving from a low cost of living city back to a high cost one was the right call for Rebecca's family, even though it technically moved her further from “full FI.” Life design matters more than the number. Time freedom with toddlers is real, but it looks different. It's not about open calendars. It's about having the option to be present and sharing the load with your partner. You don't have to be a billionaire to make a meaningful charitable impact. Rebecca's philanthropy pledge starts at just 1% of income, and the math works out to about $100 a month for many people. Proactive giving feels better and has more impact than reactive giving. Rebecca recommends a three-bucket framework: family, emotional connection, and measurable impact. Chapters:  0:00 – Welcome and Personal Connections 1:12 – Meet Rebecca Herbst and Her Financial Independence Journey 4:25 – Early Career and the Path to FI 6:17 – Achieving Financial Independence at 32 8:35 – Parenthood and the Realities of Financial Independence 13:54 – How Time Freedom Changes with Life Stages 21:10 – Balancing Family Life and Time Freedom 23:09 – The 1% Pledge and the Power of Charitable Giving 32:53 – How to Give More Effectively and Measure Impact 40:53 – Using Finance as a Force for Good REBECCA HERBST  Rebecca Herbst is the founder of Yield and Spread, a nonprofit on a mission to promote finance as a force for good. A former competitive rower turned early retiree, Rebecca left her career in commercial real estate in her early 30s after reaching financial independence alongside her husband Joe. She lives in Salt Lake City with her husband, their two-year-old son, and a baby girl arriving very soon! You can connect with Rebecca at yieldandspread.org.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: Running the numbers creates relief. Both Veena and Trevor describe the same feeling: once you see it on paper, fear turns into confidence. You don't have to prove your value. Veena's biggest mindset shift was letting go of the belief that she had to constantly earn her worth. Money personalities can improve relationships. Trevor and his wife had better conversations once they understood their different styles. Working longer can be more freeing than retiring early. If you love your work, extending it beats sacrificing now for some future number. Some of the best people you meet come later in life. Trevor reminds us that new friendships can be just as meaningful as old ones. Chapters: 0:00 – Why the Time Freedom Calculator Brings Relief 1:07 – Meet Trevor + Veena (Background + What They Do) 2:43 – Welcome + How They Know Brian (AJ Harper Writing Community) 3:13 – Beliefs That Changed (Time, Identity, and Proving Yourself) 9:20 – Life Stage Snapshot: Work, Marriage, Kids, Entrepreneurship 10:39 – What Time Freedom Means (Choices, Impact, and Agency) 11:55 – The Calculator Effect: Seeing a 6-Month Dip as a “Small Blip” 12:18 – Real-Life Optionality: Being Present for Family When It Matters 18:23 – Money Styles + Better Money Conversations With Partners 24:42 – The Books They’re Writing + Designing Life 10 Years Out VEENA HARBAUGH  Veena Harbaugh is a sustainability strategist based in the Bay Area. She spent over a decade helping Fortune 500 companies build environmental and social programs that actually work. Veena is currently writing her first book, Meet the Moment, a guide for change-makers who want to stay effective without burning out. You can connect with Veena at veenaharbaugh.com. TREVOR BLONDEEL  Trevor Blondeel spent 25 years leading manufacturing operations before launching his own consulting and coaching business. He helps leaders in manufacturing, logistics, and construction get better results by building trust and accountability through real conversations. Trevor hosts the Manufacturing Greatness podcast and is writing a book by the same name. You can connect with Trevor at trevorblondeel.com.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: You can design your work around your ideal life. AJ built a studio that funds her dream lake home. Thinking in "seasons" beats rigid daily time blocks. Intense work periods are sustainable when you know they'll end. Writing is a learnable craft, not just a natural talent. Commitment to learning matters more than innate ability. The mindset "my art will sustain me" becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. Limiting beliefs about creative work hold people back. If you want to become an author, start by reading, and get honest about what level of success you actually want. Chapters:  0:00 – Introduction + Why Sustainable Authorship Matters 3:05 – AJ Harper’s Time Freedom Journey 8:11 – Inside the Publishing World: From Insider to Strategist 12:58 – Taking Risks & Choosing the Entrepreneurial Path 15:06 – Seasonal Living: New York & Madeleine Island 20:27 – Designing a Flexible, Intentional Life 24:59 – Transitioning Fully Into Authorship 29:52 – Craft, Mindset & the Making of a Sustainable Writer 43:14 – Building a Body of Work (Not Just One Book) 47:34 – Creative Freedom + Where to Find AJ AJ HARPER AJ Harper is an author, book coach, and collaborative writer behind multiple bestselling books, including her work with Mike Michalowicz on Profit First and the upcoming The Money Habit. She's the author of Write a Must-Read and creator of the Top Three Book Workshop, where she helps authors write books that actually deliver on their promise. AJ is also co-host of the Don't Write That Book podcast. You can connect with AJ at ajharper.com  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways: Time is the ultimate flex. Kelly took eight and a half weeks off in her first year of entrepreneurship. That was never possible in corporate. Increasing your income beats budgeting. Kelly tripled her income by investing in herself with an MBA, and it paid off faster than 8% in the stock market ever would. You don't have to marry rich or live in a tiny home to have time freedom. Kelly's realtor showed her that strategic choices make it possible for anyone. Sometimes it takes multiple pushes. Cancer didn't change her mindset, but her daughter's words did. Stability comes from self-belief, not your employer. When you believe in yourself more than you doubt yourself, everything changes. Chapters: 00:00Introduction and Initial Connections 01:58The Journey of Entrepreneurship 06:26Personal Stories and Vulnerability 07:55Shared Experiences of Generosity 09:04The Journey to Health and Time Freedom 10:09Defining Time Freedom and Personal Background 11:02Designing Your Ideal Life 14:35Facing Life's Challenges: A Personal Story 19:51The Transformation of Priorities 20:34Financial Strategies for Time Freedom 27:54Crafting a New Career and Life Purpose KELLY POQUIZ BURKE  Kelly Poquiz Burke is a career and leadership coach and keynote speaker based in Dallas, Texas. She spent 14 years climbing the corporate ladder in advertising and marketing, including roles at Frito-Lay where she led the Doritos brand. After being diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy and navigating motherhood through the pandemic, Kelly left corporate America to help others overcome burnout and lead more authentic lives. She works primarily with marketing and advertising professionals in middle management.  You can connect with Kelly at careerslay.com.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Freedom is optionality. Hanna defines it as being able to say yes to things without financial constraint, not as never working again.Rest is productive. Your best breakthroughs often come from deliberate rest, not relentless doing.The "savings mountain" can paralyze people. Focusing on building skills and income streams may be more empowering than fixating on a number.You don't have to buy a house just because everyone else is. Flexibility and experiences might align better with your actual values.Comparison culture keeps people feeling behind. Much of what you see on social media is aspirational marketing or outright fake.Chapters:0:00 – Meet Hannah Horvath + The Slash Career Life3:49 – Rest, Productivity & Rethinking Hustle6:32 – Influential Mentors & Early Money Experiences11:59 – Money Psychology: How Your Past Shapes Your Financial Decisions17:41 – Money Personalities & Defining “Enough”20:25 – What Does Freedom Actually Mean?21:11 – Home Ownership: Wealth Builder or Wealth Trap?25:57 – Optionality: Savings Mountain vs Cash River31:35 – Debt, Financial Anxiety & Psychological Burden36:49 – Retirement, Autonomy & Building a Healthy Relationship with MoneyHanna Horvath is a Certified Financial Planner and money psychology expert based in Brooklyn, New York. She writes the newsletter Your Brain on Money, exploring the hidden psychological forces behind our financial decisions. A Syracuse journalism grad with a master's from NYU, Hanna previously served as Managing Editor at Policygenius and held editor roles at J.P. Morgan Chase and Bankrate. Her work has appeared in NBC News, Business Insider, CNBC, and USA Today. You can connect with Hanna at yourbrainonmoney.com.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Time freedom might accelerate financial freedom. Saying no to low-value obligations frees you to focus on what actually moves the needle.Test your retirement before committing. Bernadette's sabbatical was a trial run that made retirement feel possible.Confidence in your ability to make money is a backup plan. That skill matters as much as a nest egg.You do not owe everyone unlimited access to you. Protecting your calendar is not selfish, it's necessary.Book marketing is about building advocates, not just readers. Bernadette booked 50 collaborations at one conference by being intentional.Chapters:0:00 – You Don’t Owe Everyone Unlimited Access to You (Cold Open)0:49 – Welcome + Meet Bernadette Joy2:46 – The Opening Question + Showing Up Without the “Mask”7:53 – Bernadette’s Story: Corporate → Financial Freedom → “Retiring” at 4010:26 – The Catalyst Moment: Loss, Perspective, and Choosing a Sabbatical14:31 – What Retirement Looks Like Now: Intentional Living + Slowing Down16:39 – Money vs Skill: What Actually Creates Freedom?19:19 – Time Freedom vs Financial Freedom: What She’d Do Differently24:12 – Trolls, Certifications, and Representation in Finance32:50 – Book Launch Strategy + Where to Find BernadetteBERNADETTE JOY Bernadette Joy is a first-generation Filipino American money expert who paid off $300,000 of debt in three years and hit a net worth of over $2 million by 40. She's the author of Crush Your Money Goals and founder of the coaching program by the same name. Bernadette has been featured on CNBC, Forbes, MarketWatch, and Yahoo Finance, and has spoken at FinCon, South by Southwest, NASDAQ, and TEDxHouston. You can connect with Bernadette at crushyourmoneygoals.com.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Mini retirements don't just help your personal life. They often accelerate your career and finances in unexpected ways."Stuck at 6” is the hardest place to change from. When life is just OK, the upside feels small and the downside feels huge.You can fund mini retirements for life by saving just 6.5% more, or by landing one job switch with a modest raise.Experiments that go horribly wrong teach you more than ones that go fine. Failure is a goldmine of insight.The real cost of staying put might be a million dollars. Jillian's friend proved that not switching jobs and not taking breaks can leave serious money on the table.Chapters:0:00 – Welcome + Introduction to Jillian Johnsrud1:44 – Jillian’s Journey to Financial Independence11:38 – What Are Mini Retirements?14:45 – The “Stuck at Six” Problem17:03 – The Courage to Step Away from the Grind18:31 – Experimentation, Growth & Mini Retirements20:05 – Learning from Failure and Career Missteps21:50 – Mini Retirements as a Long-Term Lifestyle25:55 – The 6.5% Rule Explained31:52 – Career Shifts, Income Growth & Timing36:08 – How the 6.5% Rule Funds Time Freedom38:06 – Job Switching, Earning Potential & Flexibility38:57 – Time Freedom Book Promotion + Closing ThoughtsJILLIAN JOHNSRUDJillian Johnsrud is an author, speaker, and financial independence advocate who achieved financial freedom at 32 while working low-earning jobs and raising five kids. She's the author of Retire Often and hosts the “Retire Often” podcast where she shares real stories of people who've taken mini retirements. Jillian's work has been featured on All the Hacks, ChooseFI, and at FinCon.You can connect with Jillian at retireoften.com.  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 TakeawaysTime freedom is about working to live—not living to work.The 50–25–25 rule creates sustainable income and personal freedom.True freedom comes from the ability to create income on demand.Overcoming debt can build confidence and clarity in business decisions.Authority content works best after a solid business foundation is built.Chapters:0:00 – Welcome + Introduction to Pia Silva3:00 – Working to Live, Not Living to Work7:45 – The 50–25–25 Rule Explained13:30 – From Revenue to Real Profit17:15 – Pia’s $40K Debt Wake-Up Call21:30 – Skills Over Savings: The Real Definition of Freedom25:45 – Designing a Business That Fits Your Life29:30 – Writing Scale Solo: Process & Insights34:45 – Authority, Referrals & Building a Profitable Business39:45 – Long-Term Vision, Investing & Time Freedom42:15 – Where to Find Pia + Final ThoughtsCheck out Pia's book at NoBSMastery.com/book  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 TakeawaysTime freedom means owning your schedule—not being owned by it.Intentional living shapes both your work and your relationships.Health span matters as much as lifespan when designing your future.You don’t need big money to achieve meaningful, impactful goals.Vulnerability and authenticity build authority, connection, and growth.Chapters:0:00 – Welcome + Real-Life Podcasting Moments1:36 – Introduction to Mike Michalowicz4:03 – Podcasting Journeys & Trying New Things6:48 – Marketing Yourself (Even When It’s Uncomfortable)9:33 – Embarrassment, Visibility & “Risk It for the Biscuit”12:26 – What Time Freedom Really Means14:56 – Intentional Living & Goal Setting17:47 – Health Span vs. Life Span20:23 – Quickfire Questions & Personal Insights22:49 – Upcoming Projects & Book Launch26:28 – Time Freedom in Practice29:03 – Authorship as a Catalyst for Opportunity30:26 – Passion, Purpose & Helping Others32:38 – Time Freedom Book Promotion  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top Takeaways:Time freedom creates space for connection, purpose, and love.Time freedom isn’t the end goal—it’s the starting point for something more.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to Time Freedom2:44 – The Journey of Writing & Reflection5:18 – Understanding Reader Expectations7:53 – The Call to Greatness10:22 – Why Connection Matters Most14:44 – Practical Applications of Time Freedom17:30 – Looking Ahead to Season Two  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Action is what turns plans into real change.Waiting until you’re ready can create stronger outcomes than rushing.Simplifying your focus increases impact and follow-through.Community and support are essential—you don’t have to do this alone.Time freedom creates space for new opportunities, not just rest.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to the Time Freedom Podcast1:23 – Why Taking Action Matters6:10 – The Three-Part Action Framework8:39 – The Power of Waiting Until You’re Ready14:52 – Taking Action in Business16:46 – Feedback Over Failure: The Maker’s Mindset19:11 – Focus, Simplicity & the 80/20 Rule22:21 – Personal Examples of Time Freedom in Action24:45 – Why Support Changes Everything29:57 – Creating Your Personal Action Plan  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:The Time Freedom Calculator is a free, flexible tool for designing your financial future.Understanding future expenses builds true financial confidence.The calculator allows for multiple work, income, and lifestyle scenarios.Visual data makes decision-making easier and more empowering.Small adjustments today can radically accelerate your path to time freedom.You can find the Time Freedom Calculator at https://timefreedomcalculator.com.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to the Time Freedom Podcast6:01 – The Time Freedom Calculator Explained11:24 – Rethinking Money & Work for Freedom16:31 – Case Study: Annika & Nick’s Journey24:23 – How to Use the Time Freedom Calculator32:31 – Next Steps & Taking Action  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Get my free bonus chapter here to learn even more about Fast Follow Investing.Top 5 Takeaways:Momentum investing looks forward.Human behavior impacts market trends.Serial autocorrelation isn't as complicated as it sounds.Fast Follow Investing caps losses during downturns while still letting your capture gains.Technology has made momentum strategies more accessible.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to Fast Follow Investing4:45 – Personal Backgrounds & Early Financial Lessons9:08 – How Investment Strategies Have Evolved13:20 – Understanding Momentum Investing17:42 – Practical Application: How Fast Follow Works22:14 – Why Momentum Supports Time Freedom26:28 – Conclusion + Next Steps   🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:The Time Freedom Portfolio blends safety and growth through simple, passive tools.There’s no single “right way” to invest—your goals determine your strategy.Passive indexing is favored for its low fees, ease, and long-term results.Cash allocation (10–30%) provides both stability and confidence.A strong financial runway—6 months to 2 years—supports true time freedom.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to the Time Freedom Portfolio5:59 – What the Time Freedom Portfolio Includes10:13 – Five Principles of Time Freedom Investing18:38 – How to Determine Your Cash Allocation23:10 – Bonds vs. Stocks in a Freedom-Focused Strategy24:31 – Cash Allocation Quiz + Final Thoughts  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Cash is foundational to financial security and time freedom.Investing isn’t just about returns—it’s about risk management.“You win by not losing”: avoiding losses matters more than chasing gains.Cash gives you power—freedom to leave unfulfilling jobs and seize opportunities.A balanced portfolio includes both higher-risk investments and meaningful cash reserves.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to the Time Freedom Podcast6:07 – Why Cash Accounts Matter13:20 – Types of Cash Savings Accounts17:16 – Understanding Loss Asymmetry26:47 – Cash, Opportunity & Closing Thoughts  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Investing isn’t about complexity—it’s about clarity and confidence.Sharing financial mistakes helps others (and yourself) grow.The barbell approach balances low-risk and high-reward opportunities.Time freedom should guide your financial strategy—not the other way around.The Time Freedom Portfolio blends safety and growth for lasting results.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to Investing6:35 – Personal Investing Stories & Lessons Learned13:41 – The Importance of Financial Awareness16:43 – How Investing Connects to Time Freedom19:30 – The Barbell Investment Strategy23:48 – Understanding Stock Market Returns30:04 – The Time Freedom Portfolio Overview  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Most people dislike budgeting—and that’s okay.The No-Budget Budget replaces limits with intentional spending.Understanding where your money goes creates real freedom.Financial order comes from reflection, not restriction.Managing debt strategically supports your path to time freedom.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction: What Is the No Budget Budget?7:53 – How Budgeting Philosophies Have Evolved10:08 – Understanding Value-Based Spending13:13 – Practical Steps to Implement the No Budget Budget17:27 – Prioritizing Expenses for Freedom20:03 – Cutting Costs the Smart Way22:27 – Aligning Spending with Values26:09 – Maintaining Financial Order30:29 – Debt Management & Time Freedom  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Money impacts happiness—but only when aligned with your values.Experiences create more lasting joy than material possessions.Protect your freedom with smart tax planning and insurance.Understand the difference between investments and expenses.Recognize hidden fees and start saving early to invest wisely.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to Spending Strategies7:19 – Understanding Money and Happiness10:27 – Experiences vs. Material Goods15:30 – Spending According to Life Stage17:40 – Tax Strategies for Financial Freedom18:36 – Protecting Against Major Loss19:17 – Safeguarding Income & Investments22:54 – Inflation and Personal Finance24:47 – Investments vs. Expenses28:36 – Hidden Fees That Erode Wealth31:48 – Saving Early & Investing Wisely  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:A VA is not just help—they’re a growth partner in your business.The right time to hire is when overwhelm becomes the norm.Trust and communication are the foundation of every great partnership.Mistakes will happen—focus on progress, not perfection.Delegation is the key to reclaiming your time and energy.Chapters (Cleaned Up):0:00 – The Importance of Virtual Assistants2:56 – Kirby’s Journey to Becoming a VA5:22 – Overcoming Fears & Finding the Right Fit7:42 – Building a True Partnership9:14 – Mastering Inbox & Calendar Management11:41 – The Value of Delegation13:36 – Building Trust & Communication16:00 – When to Hire a VA20:57 – Finding the Right Fit for Your Needs23:05 – Embracing Mistakes & Learning25:49 – Final Thoughts on VA Partnerships  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Seasonal schedules aren’t just for teachers—they benefit everyone.The traditional 40-hour workweek is outdated and unsustainable.Automation and delegation are key to creating flexibility.Raising your prices can help you work less while earning more.The Time Freedom Calculator helps you confidently plan your ideal lifestyle.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to Seasonal Schedules0:45 – The Concept of Seasonal Work1:59 – Implementing Seasonal Schedules21:54 – Final Reflections + Takeaways  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Debt and freedom don’t mix—self-funding keeps you in control.The first year is for learning, saving, and building momentum.Investing in yourself can yield the highest returns.Knowing your lifestyle expenses is the foundation of smart planning.A three-year plan can help you transition into entrepreneurship sustainably.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction: The Case for Self-Funding5:05 – Why Self-Funding Creates True Freedom10:24 – The Three-Year Transition Plan17:20 – Calculating Your Financial Needs18:07 – Investing in Yourself for Growth19:29 – Closing Reflections + Key Takeaways  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:You can transition to entrepreneurship without hustle culture.Burnout is a real risk when balancing a 9–5 and a side hustle.Proven service offerings and a strong network create stability.Sales skills and consistent follow-up are essential for success.Assessing your readiness ensures a smoother, faster transition.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction + Personal Experiences2:46 – The Hustle Mentality in Entrepreneurship4:44 – The No Hustle Transition Framework7:38 – Leveraging Proven Service Offerings9:30 – The Importance of a Strong Network15:06 – Essential Entrepreneurial Skills19:55 – Sales Skills & Customer Service27:11 – Assessing Readiness for Transition  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:The Catalyst is about working less and achieving more.Time freedom creates space for big ideas.Your unique skills, ideas, and relationships are multipliers for success.Inclusivity in writing and business builds deeper connections.Protecting your time is part of building a sustainable lifestyle business.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction + Personal Updates3:15 – The Catalyst Concept5:50 – Book Publishing Journey Update8:33 – Why Time Freedom Fuels Big Thinking11:25 – The Yard Sale Story14:18 – Identifying Your Catalyst16:56 – Exponential Value: Skills, Ideas, and Relationships19:48 – Finding Your Unique Advantage22:45 – Questions to Uncover Your Catalyst25:28 – Inclusivity in Business & Content Creation28:19 – Maximizing Authority and Visibility  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:A lifestyle business prioritizes freedom over unchecked growth.Success is measured in time and choice, not just revenue.Evaluating income by the hour gives a clearer picture than annual totals.Raising prices can unlock more freedom with less work.Boundaries and intentional design keep your business aligned with your life.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction + Personal Anecdotes2:50 – What Is a Lifestyle Business?7:33 – The Freedom of Lifestyle Entrepreneurship10:37 – Redefining Success on Your Terms13:18 – Comparing Business Models16:07 – Control, Boundaries, and Balance19:39 – Structuring Your Work for Freedom25:26 – Final Thoughts + Future Insights  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Visioning clarifies goals and guides decision-making.The Look Back, Look Ahead method makes life design structured and doable.Self-care is non-negotiable for growth and fulfillment.A 10-year vision can shape your actions in the present.Personal reflection creates alignment between work and happiness.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to Life Visioning2:50 – The Look Back, Look Ahead Process5:41 – Personal Reflections on Career Paths8:07 – Why Self-Care Matters10:37 – The Four Pillars of Happiness13:08 – A Current Life Snapshot15:53 – Looking Back at the Past17:53 – Envisioning the Future21:42 – Conclusion + Key Takeaways  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Time freedom is bigger than just building a retirement account.The 4% rule is outdated and unrealistic for many people.A massive savings pile isn’t the only path to independence.Purposeful work and flexible income can feel more freeing than early retirement.Enjoying life now matters as much as planning for later.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction to the Time Freedom Podcast3:30 – Rethinking Retirement Savings10:16 – The Debate on Retirement Numbers16:16 – The Savings Mountain vs. Cash River19:40 – The Freedom of Working Longer25:07 – Closing Thoughts + Future Topics  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Money personalities are rooted in early experiences and stories.Minimizers, Managers, and Makers all view money through different lenses.Your money personality can evolve as your awareness grows.Entrepreneurs must know their numbers and their money scripts.Aligning your money personality with your goals accelerates time freedom.Chapters:0:00 – Understanding Money Personalities11:23 – Exploring Money Scripts & Personal Experiences21:57 – The Money Personality Quiz26:54 – Conclusion + Future Insights  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Top 5 Takeaways:Time freedom is bigger—and better—than work-life balance.You don’t need millions to live free; you need the right formula.Flexible work creates joy, not just income.Investing in yourself often beats the market.The path to freedom can be measured in years, not decades.Chapters:0:00 – Welcome to the Time Freedom Podcast3:56 – Time Freedom vs. Financial Freedom7:43 – The Time Freedom Formula11:06 – Breaking Down the Components17:27 – What Sparks Time Freedom19:50 – How to Put It into Practice24:31 – The ROI of Investing in Yourself  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Takeaways:Time freedom is a broader lifestyle concept than work-life balance.Work-life alignment is about integrating life into work, not balancing them.Financial freedom is often a myth; achieving time freedom is more realistic.You can achieve time freedom in as little as three years.Crafting a lifestyle that fits your values is essential for time freedom.The time freedom curve allows for quicker gains in freedom compared to financial freedom.Starting small with time off can lead to greater freedom over time.The time freedom formula helps structure financial decisions for more freedom.Pursuing maximum freedom is more fulfilling than pursuing maximum wealth.Focus on time freedom first, and financial aspects will follow. Chapters:00:00Introduction to Time Freedom Podcast03:04Defining Time Freedom vs. Work-Life Balance05:13Financial Freedom and Its Relation to Time Freedom08:45Brian's Journey to Time Freedom16:14The Time Freedom Curve Explained20:21Becoming a Free Timer: Strategies for Time Freedom  🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one.👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCASTEnter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!

Welcome to the Time Freedom Podcast—your guide to creating a life you love now, not “someday.” In Season 1, Brian unpacks the key ideas and frameworks from his book "Time Freedom: Rethink Your Work and Money to Create a Life You Love Now," giving you the tools to shift how you work, earn, and live. In Season 2, we will bring you conversations with leading experts in lifestyle design, money, and entrepreneurship—so you can put time freedom into practice. And in Season 3, you’ll hear inspiring, real-world stories from people who’ve achieved time freedom, and learn how you can follow their path.   🎧 Pre-order Time Freedom and get the audiobook FREE today. Normally it takes three copies to unlock the audiobook, but for podcast listeners, just one. 👉timefreedombook.com | code: PODCAST Enter code PODCAST and you'll get instant access (your paper copy arrives in September). Pre-orders help the book land on more shelves on launch day, so thank you!